You may have noticed a growing trend among professional athletes – the use of compression socks to help improve performance. Compression therapy is a hot topic in sports media right now as more and more triathletes, marathon runners and professional athletes are trying compression socks to improve their performance and recovery.

That’s because compression socks are designed to improve circulation to flush out lactic acid for shorter recovery time and provide protection and relief from injuries like shin splints and plantar fasciitis.

However, compression socks aren’t just for professional athletes. Everyone can benefit from wearing compression socks as well as getting more movement, regardless of age or physical ability. If anything, older adults have more to gain from using compression socks since our circulation may need a little extra support.

Before we take a look at some popular ways to get your body moving and what compression socks to wear for those activities, let’s talk about what exactly compression socks are, why you need them and the medical benefits of wearing them.

Check out Brightlife Direct’s entire range of compression socks and start building the active lifestyle you need, without sacrificing the comfort that you deserve.

What Exactly Are Compression Socks? 

Compression socks are specially knit knee high socks that apply graduated pressure to the ankle and leg to improve circulation in your legs. The pressure is greatest at the ankle and decreases up the leg. The amount of pressure is indicated using the measurement term “mmHG” or millimeters of mercury.

Compression thigh highs, pantyhose and leggings work the same way, but have compression that goes all the way up to the thigh.

Why Might You Need Them?

Our venous system is working hard to move blood from our heart to our toes and back to our heart again. Some days, we’re moving around enough that our leg muscles flex and act as pumps to help push the blood back up our legs. Unfortunately, a lot of us are not moving around as much as we should be. Sitting or standing for long periods of time causes blood to pool in our ankles. And, as we age, our circulatory system tends to need more help and support. That’s where compression stockings can give you that extra boost in circulation!

What Are the Possible Medical Benefits? What Can Compression Socks Do for Me?

There are many potential benefits of wearing compression socks. Of course, each of our bodies are different, but, many of our customers report:

• Enhanced circulation, which energizes legs and reduces the feeling of heaviness 
• Less swelling in the ankle and calves
• Improved spider and varicose veins
• Improved athletic performance – whether walking, golfing or on the tennis court
• Reduced muscle soreness after physical activities 

Popular Activities and the Best Compression Socks to Wear

Walking is a great way to get out and get some exercise. By walking for 30 minutes most days of the week at a brisk pace, you will be improving your cardiovascular and pulmonary fitness, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke and strengthening your bones while improving balance.

The Allegro Cushioned Walking Sock is a great choice, with 10-15 mmHG these socks are made with Hydrotec Moisture Management polyester to keep your feet dry and happy! They also have a seamless toe to protect against friction and irritation.

Biking let’s you get out in nature and feel the wind in your hair while increasing cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength and flexibility, improving joint mobility, strengthening bones, improving posture and coordination and decreasing stress levels among other numerous benefits. It is a great activity for all ages, especially for older adults because it is a low impact, low-stress form of exercise.

While biking, keep safety in mind; make sure your bike is ready and the brakes work properly, plan your route ahead of time, wear a helmet and if biking after dark have reflective strips or a light.

The CEP Women’s Run Socks 2.0 reduce muscle soreness and provide muscle stability and support with 20-30 mmHg. Plus, they feature antibacterial and odor reducing properties to prevent odor and bacteria. They are designed specifically for women with an anatomical fit, but don’t worry they make them for men too.

Golf is one of the most popular sports in the world, it is estimated that 60 million people around the world count it as one of their pastimes. Golf may not be considered physically demanding, it is a low impact activity, but playing one round means you are outside and moving.

Walking the course will provide the most health benefits but even if you take a cart you are still improving your heart health, stimulating your brain, getting social interaction and reducing stress. The CEP Men’s Compression Socks for Recovery are a great choice for during or after a round. They feature 20-30 mmHg and compression knitting that improves circulation for comfort.

Tennis provides many health benefits for all ages, the sport improves upper and lower body strength, helps maintain a healthy weight, promotes lung and heart health and can provide an opportunity for making new friends.

Because tennis is a weight bearing exercise, it helps to increase bone density which prevents osteoporosis and bone fractures. Two great socks for hitting the courts include the Allegro Athletic Performance sock and the Sigvaris Performance 412c Compression sock both socks are for men and women and provide 20-30mmHg.

Margaret Manning’s Take

“Keeping moving is a big part of my focus on healthy aging. Because I sit for many hours a day, I find that brisk walking is the most effective and enjoyable way to celebrate and nurture my active body! I love getting out into nature as a kind of active meditation!

Wearing compression socks has become a part of my daily routine. I had no idea the difference they would make. Wearing lightweight compression socks from Brightlife Direct improves my circulation, prevents sore legs and swollen ankles. They give me a sense of support which encourages me to increase my pace and stamina. So, I can achieve those extra steps that provide the cardiovascular benefits my body needs.

Also, I have noticed that, with improved circulation, my varicose veins are less visible and achy. Wearing compression socks has helped me to enjoy this amazing time of my life in an active and fun way!”- Margaret Manning

Remember, you don’t need to be a professional athlete to wear compression, people of all ages and abilities can get out and find a way to get moving while enjoying the benefits that compression socks provide.

Check out Brightlife Direct’s entire range of compression socks and start building the active lifestyle you need, without sacrificing the comfort that you deserve.

Do you wear compression socks on a regular basis? How have you found that they have improved your life? Let’s have a chat!